You May want to Start by Visiting the Dentist.   Around 30 to 40 years ago people would normally  have worked for one or two employers throughout a lifetime and many did not think about the way their overall appearance affected their professional life.   However, in  today’s working force  more people competing for the same job. Making appearance a heightened factor in their lives.  Though it is agree that looks should not be a factor in getting a job smiles are often one of the first things a person will see.  Having bad teeth can make a wrong first impression.

Question: I am a single mom of a seven year old.  I looking for a PPO dental insurance plan for the both of use. Do I have to buy a family plan or can I get a couple plan?  Not sure if couple is for people who are married.

Answer: Yes you can buy any of our dental insurance plans for a couple since it is just the two of you.  Couple plans are for married people our an Adult with a dependent child.

There are times when buying a dental discount plan may be the better choice. Do not rule out your options.  Often times people do not think about getting dental insurance until they have a toothache that needs to be address. The problem with that is that many plans have waiting periods for larger dental care needs and even the plan that do not have waiting periods may have you wait a month before coverages are in effect.  However anyone that has had a toothache know that even waiting a day or two can be just to much let alone a few weeks or more.

This is where a dental discount plans can come into play. With our dental discount plans they are effect within the next business day of buying the plan online.  Dental discount plans also provide discounted saving for cosmetic dental services as well as adult braces, in many cases dental insurance plans do not provide benefits for those types of dental care needs.

Question: I have poor dental health right now and I know will need a lot of dental care in fixing my teeth. Looking for a good dental insurance plan in California that will help with the cost have having my teeth fixed.

Answer: Our website offer many good dental insurance plan choices.  However since it sound as if you will need larger dental care issue address I would advise reviewing HMO insurance plan options though California Dental and PrimeCare Dental.  Since these plans do not have any waiting periods for larger dental care needs.   They are also the more affordable dental insurance plan type.

Call our member service line if you should have any questions about the available dental insurance plans options we provide as we will be happy to help you find the best plan for your dental care needs.

Your saliva does a good job of breaking down food and washing it down your throat and into your stomach through swallowing.  However, some food are either fibrous or sticky and thy can easily get stuck in between your teeth.  These left over good particles over time will act as fuel for odor causing bacteria causing you to have bad breath. That is why daily flossing after eating is so important not only to help rid yourself of bad breath issue but to protect your teeth from tooth decay.

If you do not currently have dental insurance, this is a good time of the year to start thinking about buying dental insurance to help save money on your dental care needs. The number one reason sited by people who do not visit the dentist regularly is that they can’t not afford the ever increasing cost of dental care.

With the New Year just around the corner make your dental health care a part of your New Year Resolution.  Dental health care dose not have to be costly when you think again and by a dental insurance plan that best fits your dental care needs.

Parents should closely monitor their children’s candy intake but that does not have to mean they do not get any sweets. Try and make better choices when chooses candy options. Think about these options when providing candy treats.   Sugar free lollipops and hard candies help to stimulate saliva which works to neutralize the acids of the mouth and prevent tooth decay.

Sugar free gum can help to prevent cavities. Gum not only stimulate saliva but can remove food particles from between the teeth.    Dark chocolate, according to studies done dark chocolate has antioxidants that can be good for the heart and may even lower blood pressure.   Making wiser choices in the treats and snacks will not only help prevent tooth decay but help maintain a healthier body.

When thinking about buying a dental PPO insurance plan make sure you understand the plans terms and conditions fully.  There are many benefits to having dental PPO insurance plan. One such benefit is having your dental care at a more affordable cost.   PPO dental insurance plans also have a very large dental provider data base, providing you with more in network dental office options to choose from as well as most PPO dental insurance plans provide benefits to out of network dentist.  Letting you stay with your current dentist even if your dentist is not a provider of the PPO plan.

However, with that said PPO plans also have some limitations which we talked about in prior posts. Such as waiting periods, maximum limitations and deductible/office co-pays.  By understanding the plans terms and conditions will be able to maximise your plans benefits to fit your dental needs.

When shopping for dental insurance online, it can become overwhelming quickly if you are not sure what you want in an insurance plan.  Here are some quick tips that may help your search for a dental insurance plan for you and or your family.

1) What you type in your search: When searching online try to be more specific in your search. Do not just type “dental insurance” or you will may get too large of a selection that may not even apply to you in your state.  Do put something like California Dental Insurance for individual and or family or California HMO or PPO dental insurance plans. By doing this you will hopefully only pull plans that you want and not plan in TX if you live in CA.

2) Type of Dental Insurance:  Have an idea what type of dental insurance you are searching for such as HMO, PPO Indemnity and or even Discount Plans.  By searching for a plan type this will also help to to avoid pulling up say a dental discount plan when wanting dental insurance.

3) Name of the Dental Plan: Sometime it is not good enough just to know the insurance company name in your search if you are looking for the insurance plan your dentist takes. Example, many dentist take Delta Dental, but just knowing that is not enough information to start your search since there are many different Delta Dental Plans (such as their PPO Plans Gold Diamond, and Platinum to name a few. Delta Dental also has HMO plans depending on the state you live in.)  Ask your dentist which Delta Dental plan they take so that you do not buy the wrong one. Many dental insurance companies offer multiple plan options with different plan names.

4) Know what dental insurance plans your dental office accepts: Often times people already have a dentist they are seeing before having dental insurance, and it is important to that to stay with that dentist.  Keeping your own dentist is important since it can take time to build up trust and having to change providers is not something many people want to do when they are seeing a dentist they like. Therefore if that is the case with you save yourself so time. Before starting your dental insurance search online ask your dental office what plans they are a provider of so you are only looking for them and not wasting your time on plans they do not accept

5) When in doubt ask: There is nothing wrong with asking questions before buying a dental insurance plan. If you are not sure about the dental plan you are reviewing, or if you do not understand the terms and conditions of the plan, call member services for help. Most dental insurance web sites have a member service line you can call before buying their plan. It is better you call and find out, then to buy a dental plan that does not work for your dental care needs.

Question: I currently do not have dental insurance I use to have it though my prior job. I would like to keep my same dentist, so I am looking for a Delta Dental PPO plan for individuals.

Answer: In most state we offer a Delta Dental PPO plan and or plans. To review your plan options just enter your zip code in the quote box provided.  From their you will go to our beef comparison chart of all the dental insurance and dental plan options we provide in your state. To review more plan information just click on the link “Review Plan Details”.

If you should have any questions about our individual/family dental insurance plans just call our member service line at 310-534-3444 as we be happy to help you find the right plan for your dental needs.

Crunchy foods such as apples, carrots, celery—basically and any fiber-rich fruit or vegetable is your friend when it comes to fighting bad breath. According to Cynthia Sass, ADA spokeswoman and registered dietician. “Eating foods that increase saliva production keep the mouth moist—and rinsed out. Also, many carbs and proteins can get stuck in your teeth—even healthy foods like whole grain cereal or chicken breast.” So follow a meal with a Granny Smith Apple to cleanse the mouth.

Question: I have this dentist I want to start going to but the office stated that the only accept PPO’s dental insurance plans. What should I know before buying a dental PPO insurance plan.

Answer:  Dental PPO insurance plans are great plans for staying with or choosing your own dentist.  However, I strongly encourage you to read the plans terms and conditions carefully when buying any PPO dental insurance plan.

Generally dental PPO plans have waiting periods for both basic and major dental care services provide only preventive dental care at the effective date of the plan. Under most PPO plans there will be a yearly maximum limitation. A maximum limitation is the dollar amount the insurance company going to pay out for dental care services each year.

Also check to see if the plan has a office co-pay (the dollar amount you pay each time just for going to the dentist such as $20.00 co-pay) or a yearly deductible (the dollar amount you pay before the insurance company provides benefits. generally this would be around $50.00 – $75.00)

Most everyone what to have a nice looking smile which includes having healthy teeth and gums.   Yet there are still bad habit that are done by many people that can make then not have the smile they are wanting.  Here are five bad habits you should avoid in order to maintain healthy teeth and gums and have a wonderful smile.

1) Not flossing:   Many people still do not floss.  Flossing at least once a day is critical in order to achieve and maintain a healthy smile.  The bad habit is thinking that brushing your teeth is enough and flossing is not really necessary. Flossing removes the cavity causing bacteria which is left behind from food particles that get stuck between teeth.

2) Overly bleaching your teeth:   We all seen at least one person that has teeth are too white, causing them to have that unnatural look.  True we like to have nice white teeth but overzealous bleaching can cause your teeth to look unnaturally white  as well as increase tooth sensitivity.  Over the counter whitening kits can help to make your teeth whiter but make sure you use as directed and do not over use it.   Also you may want to speak to your dentist about teeth whitening options.

3) Replacing your toothbrush:  Many people do not replace their toothbrush often enough.   Old toothbrushes are not only ineffective but the can harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infections.  Therefore, you should change out your toothbrush every  three to four months.   It is also advise to change out your toothbrush after having a cold.

4) Hard-bristled toothbrush:  A bad combination is a hard bristled toothbrush and aggressive brushing technique, as that can cause irreversible damage to your gums.   Instead use a soft toothbrush and gently brush your teeth.   Also make sure to brush your teeth at  a 45-degree angle, in a circular motion. Using a back-and-forth, sawing motion causes the gums to recede, and can expose the root of the tooth, making teeth extremely sensitive.

5)  Do not brush your teeth right after eating:   Acidic foods and beverages, such as sports and energy drinks, citrus fruits, wine, and tomatoes, etc.  can erode your tooth enamel.  Yet, brushing your teeth too soon after eating and drinking these types of  food and drink items can cause more damage because you are essentially brushing the acid into the teeth, not getting rid of it.  You should instead, rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and beverages and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

Question: I am thinking about buying a dental plan but a few people say buying dental insurance is not worth it. Is that true.

Answer: Our standard answer would be no that is not true. After all we do sell dental insurance as well as dental discount plans. However, sometime when, why and who can have an effect on whether or not you think it is worth buying insurance.

When: When you buy dental insurance is important because depending on the dental insurance plan type you may have to deal with plan waiting periods.  You will want to keep that in mind. Plans such as PPO and Indemnity insurance plan will normally have waiting periods. Where as HMO and dental discount plans will normally not have plan waiting periods.

Why: Why you want dental insurance deal with what type of dental care you may need. Again waiting periods come into play.  If your current dental needs is just for preventive dental care such as X-ray office visits and cleaning’s you could buy either type of dental plans and be okay. However if you need fillings, crowns, extractions etc., waiting periods will once again come into play with effectiveness.

Who: Who really refers to what dental office you wish to go to for your dental care. If you are wanting to stay with a current dental office then buying dental insurance will depend on what that dental office accepts.  Dental plan types such and HMO and Discount plans required you stay in or choose a dentist within their plan network of providers. If the dentist you want to go is not a provider of these types of plans then it limits you to PPO and or Indemnity dental insurance plans in order to stay with said provider.

Go over what you want in an insurance plan and how it can best fit your needs to see if buying one is worth it to you. Our website offers many different plan types and we are here to help.  Please call our member service line at 310-534-3444 if you should have any questions about our dental insurance and plan options, we are always happy to help.

Sadly many people do not buy dental insurance when they are not receiving it from their employer.  They continue to go without dental insurance often times because they either feel they can afford their preventive care such as twice a year cleaning’s or they are going without dental care because their teeth are not bothering them and feel they do not need twice a year check ups.

However the problem with that line of thinking is two fold. For the person that can afford preventive dental care, why pay for something when most insurance plans pay 100% for preventive dental care? Even low cost dental insurance plans such as HMO’s will normally have preventive dental care for free.  Also ask yourself will you still be able to pay for dental care out of pocket if you do need to have larger dental care needs. Dental care can become expensive quickly once you get beyond preventive dental care services.

For the individuals that do not have dental insurance because they do not go to the dentist.  Sure it would be hard to say to buy something if you do not have intentions on using it. And in the short term this method may seem the best way in saving money.  However without regular dental visits you do put yourself at a higher risk of needing larger much more costly dental care needs.  Also when you wait to buy dental insurance until you are in need of larger dental care needs you limit the plans that can address your dental care due to the fact that many dental insurance plans have waiting periods for major dental care services. Delaying dental care in the end will be more expensive to you in the long run.

Currently looking for either a dental insurance or dental discount plan. I am not picky but would like to get the better of the plan option. I have not been to the dentist in over three years so it time to a least get a check up.

Answer: In a prior post on December 1st 2014 “Dental Plan or Dental Insurance” we addressed some of the basic differences. However no one plan is better then the other. Meaning what is best really depends on your own current dental needs.

I suggest calling our member services line at 310-534-3444.  They will be able to go over your current dental needs and help you choose the best plan type for your needs.

It is important to understand that bad breath that seems to have no other cause may indicate an infection elsewhere in the body. If you have chronic bad breath and your dentist rules out any oral problems, see your doctor for an evaluation. Bad breath can be a sign of a range of conditions including respiratory tract infections, chronic sinusitis or bronchitis, diabetes, or liver and kidney problems.

Question: What is a dental plan compared to dental insurance? Not sure the difference.

Answer: A dental plan or rather a dental discount plan is a plan that helps provide dental care services at a reduce cost to you with dental providers of the plan. Consumers typically pay an enrollment fee and an annual or monthly fee and get access to discounted services from member providers. Discounts can range anywhere from 15 percent to 80 percent.

Dental insurance would be your HMOs, PPOs and Indemnity plans. You can see that with dental insurance their are a few plan types they do work differently and depending on your dental care needs you may prefer one over the other.  Dental insurance is also designed to help reduce your cost for dental services.  Consumers who go the insurance route also get the benefit of oversight from their state department of insurance, which could prove helpful if they have insurance complaints.

There are a few reasons why you may have bad breath while traveling.   Bad breath can happen when traveling when salivary glands slow down the production of saliva, which allows bacteria to grow inside the mouth and bad breath to develop.

Often times travelers alter their food intake while at the airport and on the plane.  Either by increasing their fast food and soda intake which can leave food particles in the mouth that produce a sulfur compound and cause bad breath, or by fasting which still cause bad breath by bringing back morning breath.  In addition to food changes, travelers often fail to maintain their dental hygiene habits causing bad breath by forgetting to brush and floss daily

Buying dental insurance for you and or your family is a key way to help maintain your family oral health care. At CaliforniaDentalInsurance.com we offer many good dental insurance plan options Delta Dental being one such option.

Delta Dental is a very popular plan in California since it has a large dental provider data base. Therefore the chances are your dentist is a provider of Delta Dental PPO plans. However, even if your dentist office is not a provider of Delta Dental PPO plans, since it is a PPO plan you are still able to go to dentist that are not a participating provider.

Take the time to review our dental insurance options, just enter your zip code in the quote box provided.  If you should have any questions about the available dental insurance plan please call our member service line at 310-534-3444 as we be a happy to help you find the best dental insurance plan that fits your dental needs.